IB Primary Years Programme Candidacy

The IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), is the first curriculum framework for international primary schools, designed for students ages three to ten (grades K through 5). Through both the curriculum and teaching it aims to develop the intellectual, emotional and physical potential of each child, in a secure and stimulating environment.

International perspective: A driving force behind the PYP is the philosophy of international mindedness. The IB’s mission statement strives to nurture young people who recognize that they are global citizens and who are motivated to make changes to and in the world.

Integrated: the subject areas of maths, language, science, social studies, information technology, the arts, physical education and library are taught through transdisciplinary themes in order to help students make connections between the subjects, thereby facilitating more effective learning.

Individualised: Teaching and Learning is differentiated for students needs. Students are asked to make connections between life in school, life at home and life in the world. These connections contribute to the development of the attitudes that contribute to international mindedness.

The PYP fosters the development of thinking, communication, socializing, research and self-management skills. Students are encouraged to put what they have learned into practice through service to the school community, the local community and the global community.

The PYP provides a curriculum framework of 5 essential elements:

Knowledge- content in math, language, social studies, science and the artsConcepts- important ideas that have universal significance regardless of time or place within and across disciplines. Concepts are presented in the forms of questions that drive the inquiry. Skills- specific capabilities in thinking, social interactions, communication, self-management, and researchAttitudes- dispositions, values, beliefs and feelings towards learningAction- Making changes to and in the world.

*Please note RFS is still in the candidacy phase of the PYP Programme and therefore is not yet considered a PYP School.Expected authorization in 2018.